Andy Carroll ‘should look to Aston Villa’s Emile Heskey as a role model’

Andy Carroll has been advised to use
Emile Heskey as a template for success, both on and off the pitch.

Aston Villa’s Emile Heskey should be a role model for Andy Carroll, it has been claimed (Action Images)

Newcastle striker Carroll has seen his stock rise after some impressive performances this season, including a hat-trick in the Magpies’ 6-0 rout at home to Heskey’s Aston Villa in August.

But the England Under-21 international has also attracted some unwanted attention after being involved two high-profile assault cases.

Heskey, branded a World Cup flop by critics as England struggled in South Africa in the summer, has been rejuvenated by new Villa manager Gerard Houllier – his former Liverpool boss.

Now ex-Villa defender Earl Barrett has hailed the 32-year-old forward as a model professional ahead of Sunday’s second-city derby with Birmingham.

‘Gerard Houllier has brought a marked improvement in Emile’s game,’ said Barrett, 43. ‘Emile will admit he is not a prolific scorer but he is a tireless worker and is the ultimate team player.

‘He is good in the air, brings others into play and he can hold the ball up and give his defenders much-needed respite if the side is under the cosh.

‘Andy Carroll can learn from that and add the relevant aspects to his game but he can also follow Emile’s example off the pitch.

‘He doesn’t get into any trouble or court controversy. Andy has to learn to keep his head down and concentrate his undoubted ability on his game.’

This weekend Barrett believes Villa will have the edge but added: ‘It will be close. [Birmingham boss] Alex McLeish is making progress and they are like Everton – they are one of those teams that make life really difficult for you.’

The Black List, supported by the FA, PFA, Kick It Out and the Black Collective of Media in Sport, documents the 50 most influential black people in football. Find out more at www.kickitout.org